In this episode of Behind the Regs, Jack Calveley and Nader Hassan are joined by Darren Burrell for a thoughtful conversation about competence, consultancy, technical leadership, and where experienced Building Control professionals fit within the current regulatory landscape.

Darren brings a broad background across Building Control, quantity surveying, local authority work, NHBC, warranty risk management, technical consultancy, major projects, fire compliance, professional membership, standards work and leadership.

The discussion explores what competence really means beyond titles, registration status and CPD records, particularly for professionals who may not always be carrying out restricted functions day to day, but are still using their knowledge and experience to advise design teams, manage risk, support projects, train others and contribute to better outcomes.

Topics covered include:

• Competence beyond registration alone

• Building Control consultancy vs statutory Building Control

• RBI status, re-registration and restricted functions

• Chartered status and wider professional recognition

• Warranty risk, fire compliance and major project experience

• The value of technical leadership and mentoring

• Whether the industry needs clearer recognition for Building Control consultants

This episode is not about blurring the line between consultancy and statutory decision-making. It is about understanding how experience, judgement, behaviour, knowledge and responsibility are recognised in a changing Building Control profession.